Proton Pump Inhibitors (Prevacid, Prilosec & Nexium)

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed drugs used to treat heartburn, acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and stomach ulcers by blocking the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. Some of the most-sold brands of PPIs include Prevacid, Prilosec and Nexium.

PPIs are available by prescription or over the counter. At least 15 million Americans receive PPI prescriptions every year, with the number of patients purchasing the drugs over the counter likely much higher. They are among the top-selling drugs in America. Nexium alone sold more than $4.4 billion in 2014. They are available in tablet or capsule form and are taken orally.

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Kidney Disease

Recent research has linked drugs such as Prilosec and Prevacid to an increased risk of kidney disease and other kidney injuries. The research found that patients who used PPIs were more likely to develop chronic kidney disease over 5 years than patients who used other types of heartburn medication. Other research suggests that the drugs may be responsible for prematurely aging blood cells, causing them to break down and clog the kidneys.

PPI manufacturers have reportedly known about the potential increased risked of kidney disease associated with their drugs. In December 2014, manufacturers were told to put kidney disease warnings on the labels of drugs such as Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium.

News of PPI kidney disease has led some doctors to speak out against the widespread use of PPIs and urge patients to consult doctors before taking the drugs. Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium are not appropriate for minor heartburn, according to some doctors. Other PPI side effects include nutrient deficiency, bone density loss and heart attacks.

Filing a PPI Lawsuit

If you or a loved one experienced kidney disease or kidney problems for proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, Prevacid or Nexium, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Contact the PPI lawyers at Hissey Kientz, LLP for a free case evaluation. You can reach us by calling toll-free at 1-866-275-4454, or by filling out our free contact form on the right of this page.